Kempston calling may 2016

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MAY 2016

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2 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

KEMPSTON TOWN COUNCIL 104 Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK42 8BG Tel: 01234 851005 www.kempstontowncouncil.com Email: kempstoncouncil@btconnect.com Office hours: 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday MEETINGS TAKING PLACE IN MAY/JUNE

PLANNING COMMITTEE … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 10 May at 6.30pm … … … … … … … … … … … … 10 May at 7.30pm ANNUAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING … … … … … … … … … … 2 June at 7.30pm KEMPSTON BURIALS JOINT COMMITTEE PLANNING COMMITTEE … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …14 June at 6.30pm TOWN COUNCIL … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …14 June at 7.30pm All meetings held at Kempston Town Council. We want you to come to our Town Council meetings.

Hello! Hello!

The important issue of policing in Kempston was discussed at the last Town Council meeting.

Councillors understand that a lack of government funding has led to restructuring. Concern was expressed that it is not clear who is covering Kempston or at what level. The Council has enjoyed good relationships with the police in the past but it has become more difficult to establish appropriate contacts. The Council decided to seek a meeting with senior officers in an attempt to restore the situation on behalf of residents.

Try Harder

Another important item on the agenda was the Saxon Centre. Councillors were frustrated about the length of time taken to try to reach an agreement between Bedford Borough and Sainsbury’s which would have resulted in refurbishment of the area.

After debating a very complicated matter Kempston Town Councillors agreed to seek an urgent meeting with the Borough Council’s Chief executive and Mayor to try to retrieve the situation.

The Saxon Centre is an important area in Kempston that deserves better!

NEW! Kempston Guide – Free copy available from the Town Council office HAVE YOU GOT A PROBLEM? HIT A BRICK WALL?

Kempston Town Council is the most local body in government and we can point people in the right direction for help with a problem. Contact your local councillor, drop in at a surgery or ring the office if you need help!

SURGERIES

The Mayor’s Quiz Night winning team was ‘Splinters’ pictured with the Mayor, Cllr Masud. A total of £447 was raised for the Mayor’s charity which this year is supporting Road Victims Trust.

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Rail link is good news

NETWORK Rail’s preferred option for the Central Section of the route is the Bedford–Sandy–Cambridge corridor.

The proposed Central Section would connect with the Western Section of East West Rail via a geographic ‘corridor’ that starts in the Bedford area and progresses towards Sandy and on to Cambridge.

Documentation, analysis and evidence supporting the decision is due (May). Once the methodology behind the Bedford-SandyCambridge corridor is published, further analysis and consultation will take place to determine options for the ‘line on a map’ route.

Erica Blamire, Principal Strategic Planner at Network Rail, said: “In reaching our decision, we have assessed the benefits and costs of several potential broad corridors, with input from rail industry stakeholders and regional working groups, including the local authorities in the East West Rail Consortium and the Department for Transport.

“We’ve considered the station catchment areas for population and employment, operating costs, forecast passenger demand, demand for short and longer distance journeys,

we’ve also considered the infrastructure needs, train service opportunities and wider impacts that the railway would have. ” East West Rail seeks to provide more, faster and more reliable services connecting East Anglia with Central, Southern and Western England to improve connectivity and support growth. Work has started on the Western Section of the line.

A new passenger service between Oxford Parkway and London Marylebone via Bicester Village started in October 2015.

Services will operate from Oxford from December 2016.”

Mayor Dave Hodgson said: “It’s excellent news that the ‘corridor’ for the central section will be Bedford onto Sandy and then Cambridge. It’s the right decision for the line as a whole and it’s the right decision for Bedford. The exact route of the line is still to be determined, and we will continue to press Network Rail to ensure that the final scheme maximises the economic and practical benefits for local residents.”

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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 3

Mayor takes over Western Bypass from John Breheny – ahead of schedule “No silver bullet to town’s traffic problems but every bit helps.”

Monday April 25, 2016

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KEMPSTON CALLING is an independent monthly magazine with no affiliation to any other organisation. © 2016 Rosetta Publishing Ltd, 30 Radwell Road, Milton Ernest MK44 1SH. Tel: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952. Printed by: Mortons Print Limited, Newspaper House, Morton Way, Boston Road, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR

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Blow for Bedford Brass

BEDFORD Brass has launched an appeal for new players.

Musical Director Mrs Liz Schofield said: “It is really good fun to play in a group and make music together. That’s why we are launching a search for the town’s hidden players and inviting them to join us.”

Liz took over the baton just a few weeks ago and is looking to swell the volume of Bedford Brass – trombonist and percussionists are in particularly short supply but players of any brass instrument are welcome.

The Band rehearses every Thursday evening in Kempston East Methodist Church hall from 8pm10pm.

Bedford Brass also has a training band called the ‘AJs’. Mr. Peter Halliday conducts the AJs on Tuesday evenings at Kempston West Methodist Church from 7pm to 8.30pm.

Band Member Jenny Gellatly said: “Bedford Brass is a non competing band and each year the Band plays at a number of concerts, fetes, churches and band stands in Bedfordshire and the surrounding area.”

If you would like more information about joining the band or would like to book the Band, please contact the Band Secretary Mrs Pat Vought, Tel 01234 852949 Email: info@bedfordbrass.com

CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRE HOURS The Council’s Customer Service Centre located at 2 Horne Lane, adjacent to the Old Town Hall building, is open 8.45am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and Fridays 8.45am to 4.45pm.

Opening hours for the Payments Office are Monday to Friday 8.45am to 4pm. Both offices are closed on Saturdays.

The new system sees the centre’s opening times streamlined to the same hours of Council business. Most Council bills, can be paid on-line and many can be paid at local post offices and PayZone outlets (just check that there is a payment barcode on the bill).

Contact the Council by on 01234 267422 or visit the website at www.bedford.gov.uk

KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 5

Harpur Run and Fun Day

THE Harpur Trust is delighted to announce the launch of its 450th anniversary 5k fun run on Sunday 22nd May at Priory Country Park.

The run, which is being supported

by The Bedford Harriers AC, and officially started by Olympic Gold Medallist Tim Foster MBE, is part of an all-day sports themed public event which promises to be one of the highlights of the charity’s anniversary celebrations this year. Open to everyone living in the area the event is expected to attract around 3000 people.

As well as a 5k fun run around the lake, there will be a 1k kids run plus climbing, orienteering, mini golf and an inflatable assault course.

Priory Sailing Club will be offering a variety of water sports as part of their annual open weekend and students from the University of Bedfordshire will be on hand to measure your fitness levels. Local bike shop Flamme Rouge are offering free safety checks to anyone who cycles to the event and they will be exhibiting a selection of bikes.

Demonstrations will include line dancing, street dance and cultural dance, performances from the Queen’s Park Fusion Choir plus an array of charities and local businesses will be exhibiting.

Sarah Elam is managing the

Trust’s anniversary events said: “The 5k race is the perfect entry level race for a beginner, but its setting in the stunning Priory Country Park will ensure there is a scenic route for more seasoned runners looking to up their PB.” With 12 weeks to go, there is plenty of time to get those running shoes on and get training but with just 300 places available, those interested are being encouraged to sign up now www.harpurtrust. org.uk/450.

The Trust is also recruiting volunteers (18+) to help out on the day please contact Sarah on 01234 369519.

Centre for Saxons

SAxON artefacts found in Kempston during the Victorian era and which ended up in the British Museum was the subject of a talk to the Friends of the Higgins recently.

Liz Pieksma took the audience through a history of brooches left behind by Saxons and Anglo Saxons across the UK, including a collection found in Kempston. Some 300 pieces of Saxon artefacts are now in the British Museum – but nearer to home they can be found on display at The Higgins Bedford in the ‘Settlement Gallery’.

Of course the Saxons links are celebrated in the naming of the Saxon Centre in Kempston, home to the town’s traditional market and modern ‘super’ market Sainsbury’s.

History across the area is catalogued at The Higgins and the Friends hear regular informative talks from experts. If you would like to join them, or find out more about general exhibitions and activities for all ages visit www.thehiggins bedford.org.uk

6 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

“A humbling and emotional experience”

ON Monday 18th April Hastingsbury Business and Enterprise College was extremely privileged to host a presentation from the Remembering Srebrenica Trust. The short, but emotionally powerful, presentation was delivered to all Year 9 students who are studying The Human Cost of War in their history lessons.

The presentation was delivered by Nedžad Avdić who was just 17 when the Bosnian Serb murder squads came to Srebrenica in July 1995 leaving him to die at one of the execution sites. Nedžad managed to escape and survive and shared his personal story with our students and staff. Nedžad is pictured below with Resad, Chloe Tester, Jovan Vukoje and Hannah Gold.

The project aims to raise awareness of the atrocity and encourage students to learn lesson from the past about the consequences of hatred, discrimination and racism. Our students gained much from this enriching experience, and valued the “full personal story which came from the heart” – Chloe Tester. Staff too were left stunned, with Mr Fletcher, the Head Teacher shared his thoughts: “Very simple, humble, but so powerful. I've been thinking about it ever since!”

Nedžad was accompanied by Resad Trbonja, who was a university student in Sarajevo at the time and works with Remembering Srebrenica, finished with his final message of: “You have a beautiful country and are very lucky. Don’t take what you have for granted and be nice to one another. I’ve seen first-hand what hatred can cause.’ Mrs Bubbra, the Head of History, also ‘hopes to work with Year 9’s and other students in the college to spread this message further.”

Dumped BoS papers

THIS has been an ongoing local saga, with the people that need them, not getting them and the advertisers not getting the readers.

At long last, the huge pile at the side of the Camstone Lower School has been shifted, but not far away, it’s now near Spring Garden’s Green spot, adjacent to the dog poo box. In the bushes nearby there is a new pile!

This is the second dumping in this location.

It is high-time the local authorities, tackled the BoS, because if the boot was on the other foot, they would soon be shouting about it.

David Menzies

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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 7

Slimming World saved my bacon Apprentice wins prestigious award

OVER the last 20 years Linda from Wootton has gone through a battle with her weight. She was a smoker and decided to quit smoking in 1996 which triggered her weight gain. Linda gained three stones and ever since struggled to lose the weight. Linda said: “You name it, I tried it, with some attempts I would lose the weight but absolutely nothing kept it off.”

Now Linda has transformed her life, she has won her battle with weight, eating foods that she loves with Slimming World, and now has enough confidence to be taking over a group in her own village to help others feel as amazing as she does now.

Now a size 12 Linda is absolutely loving life and has met lots of new people in group, depression is a thing of the past for her now and Linda is taking another step forward and will be relaunching the Slimming World group in Wootton in order to help others feel the same relief, happiness and success she has felt with Slimming World.

Linda says: “Come along to meet me at the Wootton group at the Wootton Memorial Hall, off Bedford Road MK43 9JB at either 5.30pm or 7.30pm. I will be waiting to welcome you at the door and will be with you every step of the way.

Contact me on 07912 484615.”

BEDFORDSHIRE-based MACS Plasterboard Systems Limited are pleased to announce that Lorrie-Ann Frater a second year apprentice, has won an Apprentice-of-the-Year award.

Lorrie-Ann beat substantial competition in winning the Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) award and was honoured at a gala awards lunch at the Plaisterers Hall in London.

Lorrie-Ann Frater is an Apprentice Quantity Surveyor working at MACS Plasterboard Systems as she moves towards gaining her BTEC Level 3 in Construction and Built Environment and NVQ Diploma in Construction Contracting Operations General Level 3 at Bedford College.

Lorrie-Ann joined MACS in 2014 as a school leaver with virtually no knowledge of Quantity Surveying or of the Construction Industry. “We are extremely proud of Lorrie Ann being awarded the FIS apprentice of the year.

It is recognition like this, of the hard work, that both Lorrie Ann and the MACS Commercial Team have made

bought which pushes the company to the forefront of training & development”, says MACS Commer cial Director Mark Wareham, Lorrie-Ann’s immediate supervisor.

“In a short period Lorrie-Ann has progressed from being a novice to becoming to a valued member of the MACS team; to such an extent that she and now runs the financial side of the MACS Plasterboards Customer Care Works – a role that involves pricing works to be carried out for MACS clients and also responding to client requests or queries.”

8 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

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Relief for commuters

OVER 700 runners and walkers took part in the Rotary Western Bypass Challenge organised by The Rotary Club of Bedford in aid of St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger. On Sunday April 10, runners, walkers and families in fancy dress turned out for a community event that brought hundreds of Bedford folk together for a one off chance to run or walk the new bypass before the traffic is allowed on it. The Bypass was opened to traffic on April 25.

Their were three events: 5 and 2.5 mile runs and a 2.5 mile walk.

Coming home first was Jean-Pierre Mitchell in the five mile run which was started by the Lord Lieutenant Helen Nellis, the 2.5 mile run by Bedford MP Richard Fuller and the 2.5 mile walk by the Mayor of Bedford, Dave Hodgson. The aim of the day was to raise funds to support St John’s Hospice and at the time of writing over £12,000 has been realised with, it is hoped, much more to come as participants collect sponsorship money and send it in to the Rotary Club Charity Trust Fund where it is being collected and gift aid claimed before being passed on to St John’s Hospice.

KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 9

The Mayor of Bedford Mr Dave Hodgson lit a beacon on Bedford’s castle mound on Thursday May 21, 2016. The event marked Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday. A large crowd gathered to mark the occasion. Bedford’s Brass Band and Pipe Bands also played a number of tunes. The crowd sang ‘Happy Birthday’. Also in attendance were the Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Mrs Helen Nellis and the Bishop of Bedford, the Rt Revd Richard Atkinson.

10 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Background history of the pool

by Clive Smith

ALTHOUGH Kempston now has a swimming pool in Hillgrounds Road, next to the Indoor Bowling Club, how many local residents would know that in 1936, the then Kempston Urban District Council, looked into the possible idea of building one in Hillgrounds area.

Hillgrounds at that time, before the loop road was built in the 80s, was entered at the top of the hill in Bedford Road, where the entrance to Robert Bruce School is now.

The sub committee consisted of Chairman Cllr. E E Smith, and Cllr. A Basen, Cllr. Hill and Cllr. Ramsey. The meeting was held on March 31, 1936.

The Cllrs talked about a possibility of having one in the area, and proposed a few sites but they were not a practical proposition. Cllr. Hill then offered a plot of ground he owned at the rear of the then football ground, for the purpose of building a pool. It was unanimously agreed to look into the possible pool being built. The Surveyor was instructed to look into the matter. In the end, it did not happen, unfortunately for Kempston, it was possibly a bit too big a project for an Urban District Council.

Going back to the entrance to Hillgrounds, there was, after the war, just inside on the left, a temporary building housing a library, before a permanent one was built off Bedford Road.

There were a few business people own plots in that area, one was John Basen

who had a market garden and grew vegetables etc some of which were sold in his father’s sub post office in Bedford Road, now long gone. Also, not far in on the right, was the Kempston Rover’s Ground, which had to be moved as part of the redevelopment of the area.

Further down on the left, on the river bank amongst the trees, were a few small cabins which the owners used to spend a day at the weekend, in the summer looking out over the river and out towards ‘The Ends’ of Kempston.

That reminds me of when we were at school, my older brother was keen on canoeing and wanted one of his own, so he somehow got patterns for the shape of the framework, and set about making one, complete with a water proof cover.

He enjoyed his canoe for the summer and was able to leave it under one of the chalets, that winter we had heavy snow and then heavy flooding, the canoe went missing, was it the floods, or some light fingered person who took a fancy to it?

In our teens, we lads used to go down there in the evenings or weekends to swim in the river, it saved going down to the Borough baths in Prebend Street, or further away, Newnham baths, beyond the end of The Embankment.

One time, one of the lads brought along a one man life raft, put it in the river and some twit jumped off the bank into it, going straight through the base, leaving a hole in a ring, we then had fun trying to dive through the ring, madness but good fun at the time.

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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 11

Council act to clear illegal camp

A CAMP of east Europeans set up near The Embankment in Bedford has been removed by the council.

The camp, by the River Great Ouse opposite Aspects Centre, has been there for several months and has been a source of concern to local people. Complaints had been made by residents to the police that it should not be there and needs to be removed. They were worried that if nothing was done it would grow and others might spring up.

There have been other camps before, one on the Priory Country Park car park. One resident said: “I know it is difficult and people have to live somewhere. But this is not the way to do it and either the police or the council should act. I don’t want to sound mean but we don’t pay all this money to live by a refugee camp.”

Councillor for Newnham Ward,

John Mingay, said: “I am glad it has been removed. We do not want these illegal camps being set up.

They are not people who want to integrate into our society but mainly parasites. They are an eyesore and local people are also nervous of them as trouble often follows them.

“I went to speak to some of them and was just abused.

“With the country park and river we are a prime target for these camps, so I am pleased the council has acted.”

A Bedford Borough Council spokesperson said: “Following legal proceedings by the council, a court order was issued and the encampment at Aspects Leisure park has been removed.”

Other camps still exist in and around the town, which are less prominent.

Wow! Factor for AA Rosette at Restaurant 25 The fifth floor restaurant with a view at Bedford College, 25, has been awarded an AA Rosette and listing on it’s national database. Open to the public for lunchtime bookings and special evening dinners, 25 is a restaurant where students gain work experience using their high quality skills to serve paying customers. In a fantastic review the AA Rosette inspection report commented on the warm welcome and fresh flowers and added: “The food itself was certainly a highlight and all three dishes, including the breads, were very enjoyable … (the) Great value price would certainly be a WOW moment for guests.” Hospitality Assistant Director Mark Lewis and Front of House manager Sam Ranasinghe are pictured with the prestigious award at the bar and coffee servery within Restaurant 25. Bookings can be made www.25restaurant.co.uk Hospitality and catering training at Bedford College ranges from evening classes to full-time courses for 16 - 18 year olds, apprenticeships and Higher Education in hotel management. www.bedford.ac.uk

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12 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Kempston Guides donate their Bedford Bloomers

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New Garden of Remembrance in Kempston

ON Wednesday 13 April the 1st Kempston Guides presented Soroptimist International Bedford with 160 bars of soap and lots of knickers.

The girls collected the soap and knickers to support, Bedford Bloomers which is a local initiative aligned with Soroptimist Thames Valley’s Kori Project.

The Kori Development Project is a registered charity which supports the education of young females in Kori Chiefdom Sierra Leone. As part of this support, girls there are provided with washable sanitary towels and knickers to enable them to meet their hygiene needs and to continue attending school.

Girlguiding leader Sandra Cove said: “We were delighted to support this fantastic initiative, it is such an important project which allows our girls to help girls, like themselves, in another continent.” Sandra added: “Within guiding we learn about global awareness and friendship, and actively encourage our girls to speaking out on issues that affect girls and young women across the world.”

Soroptimist President Pauline Stewart said: “On behalf of Soroptimist International Bedford, we extend a huge thank you to 1st Kempston Girlguides who, with their donations, will enable young girls in Sierra Leone to attend school and further their education.”

Girlguiding is the UK’s largest voluntary organisation for girls and young women, with Girlguiding Bedfordshire having over 4,000 girls and young women members.

Find out more at http://www. bedsguiding.org.uk/

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WE are pleased to announce that the Garden of Remembrance, which is a consecrated burial ground for the interment of ashes, is now open. *It is for people who have been born in Kempston or who have lived here. It is designed to be aesthetically pleasing, well maintained and a peaceful place for your loved one to be laid to rest.

The Garden is sited on the east side of the Transfiguration Church, Bedford Road, Kempston, Bedford MK42 8DW. It is landscaped with bulbs and slowgrowing shrubs. In time, there will be seats which will give visitors the chance to sit in a quiet place for reflection.

Contact The Church office 01234 300816 for costs.

There is a Wall of Remembrance situated in the alcove to the east of the Church upon which engraved brass plaques can be placed in memory of those who have died, irrespective of where they may be interred.

You are NOT required to be a church-goer.

Contact: A L & G Abbott Funeral Directors, 150 Bedford Road, Kempston, MK42 8BH. Tel: 01284 843222 or email: support@abbot-funerals.co.uk for costs of the plaques. *Terms and conditions apply.

14 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Rock’n’Roll in Britain 1960-63 to the Corn Exchange. Their one big hit was ‘Nut Rocker ’ which is based on LITTLE Richard, Sam Cooke and Gene Vincent (yes Tchaikovsky’s march from the ‘The him again) were at the Granada on October 17, 1962. It Nutcracker Suite’ but their follow-up record was the first British tour for Little Richard and Sam ‘Apple Rocker’ based on ‘The William Tell Cooke who were both at the top of their game especially Overture’, by Rossini failed to hit the charts Little Richard who closed the show. He tore into a and little was heard of them after but they performance lasting 40 minutes, with his renditions of were very good instrumentally. The ‘Long Tall Sally’, ‘Lucille’ and ‘Tutti Frutti’. At one following month November 17, it was the point he stood stock still on top of his piano and then fell turn of Bobby Vee and The Crickets who were the backing group for the late, great face forward onto the stage floor.

There was a gasp from the audience who thought he Buddy Holly. Booby Vee had several top had fainted, when suddenly after several seconds he ten hits both in his own country and over leaped onto his feet and belted out ‘Good Golly Miss here in the early to mid 60s, starting Molly’, before running off stage into the audience where with ‘Rubber Ball’, covered by Marty several girls became hysterical. It was an astounding Wilde, 'More Than I Can Say’ and performance and accompanying him was a 16-year-old ‘Run to Him’. keyboard wizard and future top recording star Billy 1963 was a wonderful time for Preston, who several years later played on some of the live Rock’n’Roll music in the UK as Beatles recordings. more American acts crossed the Sam Cooke’s set lasted 25 minutes and he gave a Atlantic for tours both here and in very polished performance singing his hits which Europe. Johnny and the Hurricanes included ‘You Send Me’, ‘Cupid’, and ‘Chain Gang’, a top American instrumental group before finishing with ‘Twisting the Night Away’. came to the Granada on January 21 Gene Vincent whose work permit had expired, and that very nice man, Jimmy banning him from singing on a British stage again until Saville was the compere and on March 1963, was not too bothered by what he consid- February 27, 19-years-old Brian ered to be petty regulations and appeared from the audi- Hyland and Little Eva, who was ence to perform in front of the stage to sing ‘Be Bop a just 17 representing a new generation of American Lula’. This was in my opinion the best ever Rock’n’Roll performers came here. Hyland’s hits included ‘Ginny show I ever witnessed at Bedford’s Granada; the Come Lately’, which I sometimes sing at Karaokes and Beatles, Rolling Stones and Roy Orbison shows were all ‘Sealed with a Kiss’ both of which went down well. He very good but this one just about topped the lot. ended with a rocking version of the Ray Charles’ song On October 31 B’Bumble and the The Stingers came ‘What’d I Say’. Little Eva who closed the first half was lacking confidence to begin with but recovered enough to end with a torrid version of her hit record ‘Locomotion’.

On March 12. it was the turn of Chris Montez and Tommy Roe but when they just arrived in the UK they could have had no idea they walking right into the eye of a storm that was about to confront them.

I am of course referring to The Beatles who were riding high in the Email: sales@signatureglazing.co.uk British charts with their second hit ‘Please Please Me’ and the early 20% OFF all orders placed signs of Beatlemania soon became apparent. Both Montez and Rod, before June 30th 2016 although competent performers has a very difficult time on stage to cope with the hysteria surrounding the ‘Fab Four’ and with this wave of support, found it all too much for them. With the Beatles closing the first half of the show the running l Over 30 year experience. order was soon changed with the l Full MTC in Surveying & Installations.

Beatles on last and the rest, as we l Covering Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, know, is history.

Buckinghamshire and Cambridgeshire.

As the year progressed the l Certass Regisration onslaught of Beatlemania swept the l All products secured by design nation and Liverpool, the home of l 10 year insurance backed guarantee John, Paul, George and Ringo was l ‘Why go anywhere else?’ where is was at, with the Mersey Sound as it was known. America has to wait another year to catch up and we all know the result. On May 13, I went with a girl I was friendly with (we were at school together) the lovely Cynthia Brooks to see Del Shannon at the Granada. Other acts

Part 4 continued from last month

by Ken Broughton

Tel: 01234 962137

featured were The Springfields with lead singer Dusty who later became a world-wide superstar, Kenny Lynch and Shane Fenton and The Fentones. Shane Fenton later changed his name, thereby reinventing himself as Alvin Stardust.

He then had several hit records in the 70s, the main ones being his No. 1 hits ‘(Be my) Coo Ca Choo’ and ‘Jealous Minds’. I remember saying to a girl in the Spectrum nightclub in Bedford around this time “would you like to be my Coo Ca Choo?" I like to think she said yes, but really can’t remember One of my mates said: His Coo Ca Choo was upset because as he put it “I don’t want you to be my Coo Ca Choo anymore.” His Coo Ca Choo was in tears.

Roy Orbison, Freddie and The Dreamers, Brian Poole and The Tremeloes and The Searchers along with American Country singer Bob Luman who mum met when visiting Nashville USA in the late 1970s with her sister and husband, who lived Toronto, Canada, came here on October 3.

Orbison’s stage act lacked the charisma of many of his contemporaries and aura of sadness seemed to hang over him which was reflected in many of his self penned songs such as ‘Only the Lonely’ and ‘Crying’, which had an emotional effect on his audience but for all of that there was a high quality to his singing which never left him.

To be continued next month.

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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 15

Wedding brought forward so dying mum can attend

A MOTHER with terminal cancer is determined to be at her daughter’s wedding before she dies.

The wedding has been brought forward by 16 months to make it possible.

This has cut the time to save up and plan for the wedding but friends, family, companies and complete strangers have rallied round since a funding page was set up.

The wedding of her daughter, Jessica Goodwin, 26, was due to be in November next year but will now be this July.

Jane Hall, 51, from Hill grounds Road, Kempston, was diagnosed with liver cancer earlier this year.

Jane has never smoked or been a regular drinker and the doctors are not sure how she could contract primary liver cancer, because she doesn't have any of the risk factors that normally contribute to this particular rare type of cancer.

It is, sadly, inoperable and terminal, with Jane only have months left to live.

Jane said: “They told me in February it was terminal. We have

This is even more important, as her father, Mark Goodwin, was killed in a car crash on the A6 near Bedford in 1993.

There is a sign on the roundabout dedicated to her father.

Due to the wedding being brought forward, it was planned as a simple affair to cut the costs.

But to get a bit of help Jessica set up a funding page.

The power of social media means the page has raised more than £5,000 and companies and organisations have offered everything from the wedding dress, to the car, flowers, and a marquee for the evening.

A local florist and a photographer have also agreed to help.

Jessica said: “I was very happy to do it on a budget but it is fantastic that so many people have helped so much. The kindness and generosity of people is wonderful.

Both me and my husband to be Ayden are overwhelmed.”

Jane at the back with Georgina, Jessica and Daniel.

And 10 days after the wedding Jessica’s sister, Georgina is due to been through all the options and to see Jessica married this July. give birth to her second child.

Jane plans to be here for that as now it is just a question of pain I will be at the wedding and well. management. But I am determined Addenbrookes understand that.”

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Sheriff of Bedfordshire’s appointment ceremony

MR CHARLES WHITBREAD was officially appointed to the Office of the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire at a ceremony held at All Saints Church, Southill on Sunday 3rd April.

The ceremony was attended by around 120 dignitaries, family and friends, including the LordLieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis.

The Office of the High Sheriff is an annual appointment by the Queen which goes back to Saxon times and Charles takes over the role from the Countess of Erroll.

The High Sheriff is the Queen’s representative in Bedfordshire for all matters relating to the Judiciary and the maintenance of law and order. The Office of High Sheriff is non-political and entirely selffunded. As such, the 55 high sheriffs of England and Wales are able to bring people together within their counties and to support not only the Judiciary but also the enormous contributions made by the emergency services, the armed forces, local authorities, church and faith groups and the voluntary community.

Bedfordshire has been home to the Whitbread family since around 1280.

The family lived firstly in the parish of Shillington before moving to Cardington in 1639 and then to Southill in 1795. Charles and his wife Jane, now live at Southill Park with their two sons and two daughters.

Charles follows a tradition of high sheriffs from within his family: 1767 Samuel Whitbread (Hertfordshire), 1831 Samuel Charles Whitbread, 1837 William Henry Whitbread, 1947 Major Simon Whitbread, 1962 Humphrey Whitbread TD, 1973 Sir Samuel Whitbread KCVO. As well as heading up the family estate at Southill, Charles is involved in several organisations in Bedfordshire, and counts natural history, conservation and reading amongst his interests.

During his shrieval year he is looking forward to gaining a greater understanding of the legal system as well as meeting and connecting people in a variety of organisations, both voluntary and statutory, throughout the county.

Photogrpahy: Keith Mayhew – People Press.

16 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

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Charles, with the Lord-Lieutenant and his Cadet.

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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 17

Untimely death of well-known thespian

ONE of Bedford’s leading thespians has died suddenly on a holiday in Los Angeles. Keith Pendall was a mainstay of Bedford’s theatre scene for more than 50 years.

Keith’s father, Reg Pendall was a founder member of Bedford Marianettes which originated in St. Mary’s Church. This was where Keith found his love of the theatre and joined at the age of 16, performing his first role as the eldest son of the King of Siam in “The King and I.” It was in this production where he first met Pat Pearson, who eventually became his wife in 1971. Their shared love of the theatre has lasted until the present day, and over the years Pat and Keith have played a very active part in the community.

Keith was fortunate enough to have many leading roles in various amateur clubs in the area, including “Kipps” in “Half a Sixpence”, (pictured) “Judas Iscariot” in “Jesus Christ Superstar”, “Albin” in “La Cage Aux Folles” and “Don Quixote” in “Man of La Mancha” to name but a few.

Perhaps the most memorable of all and the role for which he will be remembered is “Emcee” in “Cabaret” which he performed four times!

More recently, Keith was an active member of Bedford Drama Company and in fact, his last role in February of this year was as “Professor Banks” in the hugely successful production of “Blue Stockings” at The Place Theatre in Bedford.

Born and bred in Bedford he attended Silver Jubilee School and started work at Frames Travel in the High Street in 1962, which led to a long and successful career in the travel

Apprentices Lee, Carlan and Zain with Bedford College’s, Roger Lett, Graham Paxton (Owner, GRT Group) and Cole Turner and Daniel Ward from Bouygues UK.

Trio sign up at Riverside North

Keith Pendall October 24 1947 – March 26 2016

business. He eventually became a lecturer on this subject at Cambridge Regional College until his death.

Due to his great love of all things showbiz, Hollywood seemed a poignant place to take his “final bow!”

Keith’s love of theatre was only superseded by the love for his family.

His wife of 45 years, Pat. Daughters Rebecca and Jessica and his grandchildren Joseph and Phoebe.

Bedford Drama Company is dedicating its latest production, ‘Outside Edge’, to the memory of Keith Pendall.

Keith was a long-standing, leading light of the Bedford Theatre scene who sadly passed away unexpectedly over Easter. In paying tribute to Keith, Jenny Curzon of the BDC Committee said, “Keith was renowned for his love of theatre in all its aspects. He was one of Bedford’s leading lights appearing in innumerable musicals, operettas, plays and pantomimes over many decades.

Keith’s talent was as an all-rounder who could act, dance and who had a great singing voice. His last performance was for me as Mr. Banks in Blue Stockings in February this year. We remember Keith as a person with great energy, a wicked sense of humour and a man who will be sorely missed”

ON Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th April girls and leaders from across the Bedford Division took part in the second ever Bedford Guiding Lights Gang Show, held at The Place Theatre in Bedford.

Based on the original, ‘Gang Show’, which was started in 1932, when Scouts in London performed in a variety show, Bedford Guiding Lights was started in 2014, although just for guides, incorporates all of the fun of the original Gang Show.

There were two fully packed performances filled with singing, dancing, acting and an array of amazing costumes.

Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and their leaders performed hits from across the ages, executed dance routines and even performed some magic tricks!

Producer Gayle Darlington-Shaw, who is also an Assistant Rainbow Leader, said: “We are so proud of all the Leaders who have worked so hard with the girls to put on such a brilliant show. I for one, cannot wait to do it all again.” Gayle added: “So much hard work has gone into putting the show on, but it has been worth every minute.”

The Bedford Guiding Lights are shining brightly!

THREE Bedford College students have become the latest people to benefit from the opportunities being created as part of the new £36m development that will deliver a new town centre for Bedford.

Carlan Clarke and Zain Aslam, both 17, and 16 year old Lee Bass have all signed up to become apprentice bricklayers on the 3.6 acre Riverside North scheme that will bring new homes, shopping and leisure facilities for local residents, as well as a new bridge for pedestrians and cyclists, to the town.

The trio has been snapped up by GRT Group, a subcontractor to construction firm Bouygues UK, which is building the new development.

Bouygues UK is part of the same group of companies as Bouygues Development which, along with Coplan Estates, is responsible for the Riverside North project.

Former Redborne Upper School pupil, Lee, who lives in Flitwick, said he was keen to get involved as an apprentice because he wanted to be able to earn while he was learning on the job.

His comments were echoed by Carlan, who added: “I want to be independent, financially secure and to produce high quality work.”

Zain, who lives in Putnoe and studied at Plackgate High School in Blackburn said he was interested in

becoming an apprentice because of his interest in bricklaying – and because he wanted to gain experience to help him in his future career.

Bouygues UK’s Regional Managing Director, Mikel Berrebi, welcomed Carlan, Lee and Zain to the project, saying: “The construction industry needs more people working in the industry: it’s that simple. And one of the best ways to try out a career is as an apprentice, where you get to study towards qualifications and gain useful, practical experience as well as a real insight into the day job. Our Community Engagement Manager, Liz Jeffs, has been working hard to establish relationships with the college, as well as local schools and the university, so we can help more students to understand how our industry works; and how the education they receive could one day help them to deliver new homes and facilities like we are doing here at Riverside North.

“We’re also grateful for the support of Graham Paxton, who owns GRT Group, and is himself a former Bedford College student. He makes a point of taking on apprentices so he can give something back to the college and the industry.

“We’re looking forward to having Carlan, Lee and Zain on site and to help them develop their future careers within the construction industry.”

Guiding Lights shone brightly

18 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

Cube square funding circle

A BEDFORDSHIRE-based company has helped local academy schools win over £5 million in Government funding.

In the latest round of Condition Improvement Fund (CiF) bids to the Education Funding Agency (EFA), Cube Building Consultancy based in Flitwick, secured six out of seven applications totalling £1.8 million, bringing the amount raised over the past three years to over £5 million.

The Bedfordshire Schools that have benefitted from their latest bid winning services include, Alameda Middle School and The Firs Lower School in Ampthill, Brooklands Middle School and Gilbert Inglefiled Middle School in Leighton Buzzard, Holywell Middle, Cranfiled and Wootton Upper School.

Cube are a firm of chartered surveyors who have been providing a full complement of services to schools and businesses for over 12 years. It has achieved ground-breaking success for more than a dozen academy schools by providing bid, project and

contract management services.

The bids have been secured for vital works such as new roofs, new heating and distribution systems and essential health and safety compliance works such as fire safety and lighting systems.

“We have expertise in an area which is completely unchartered territory for many School Leadership Teams and School Business Managers. There are strategic decisions that need to be

collating data in support of their long term aims. We deliver a range of services that include Condition Improvement Fund (CiF) bid preparation and submissions.

Cube’s CiF success rate currently stands at 75% against the industry average of 25%.”

Working in partnership with specialist solicitors who have acted for many schools converting to academy status, the two companies provide strategic advice on the range of academy models most suited to each school and on built environment issues, whether during the transfer from the Local Authority or as a wider MAT evaluated before seeking access to arrangement. funding streams that can make a huge difference to a school’s balCube is staging an event for ance sheet. If they take the wrong School Business Managers, route early on they could miss out Governors and School Heads to on vital funds,” explained Key explain how to ensure that CiF Account Manager Tim Warneford bids and multi-academy appliat Cube, cations for funding have the best “Cube and our legal associates, chance of success. Anyone who combine strategic and operational would like to attend can contact advice in ensur-ing the school is Tim Warneford at tim@ fully appraised of their options cubebuildingconsultancy.com before strategically collecting and or call on 01525-722218.

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High note for students REPRESENTING Bedford College for the 2016 Battle of the Bands at the Stables, MK were the winning band ‘Weighted Space’.

The group comprised of five first year Music Performance students, who competed against ten other schools and colleges to win the event.

Jamie Gilman-Lewis (bass player and co-singer of Weighted Space) said: “Winning Battle of the Bands was something that we weren’t expecting, so when they announced our name we were both overjoyed and genuinely shocked.

“The whole night was so much fun and it makes me very excited for the future of the band.

Congratulations to everyone who took part, thanks to the organisers and the judges, and well done to everyone in Weighted Space for pulling off the win”.

The students have won Marshall amps and a free six hour recording ses-

sion and the music department have won an electric piano worth £1,000.

Bedford College staff Charlie Luscombe and Ben Baal-Bowdler, the rest of the music team and students would like to congratulate ‘Weighted Space’ and all the other schools and colleges and organisers that took part in this fantastic event.

Bedford College music students’ final show of the year can be seen at Esquires club on Thursday May 19th.

This is an amazing opportunity for Bedford College students and a real high note on which to end the year.

Prospective music students and their parents/guardians are invited to attend along to the Esquires showcase. The age policy on the door at Esquires is as stated on their website: All gigs at Esquires are 16+. If you look young for your age, bring ID! 14-15 year olds can attend if accompanied by their parent / legal guardian.

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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 19

Charity gives thanks to the ultimate Bedford Philanthropist

ON Friday 22nd April 2016, 600 pupils and staff from across the Harpur Trust schools and the charity’s headquarters, gathered for a service to give thanks to the legacy left to the town of Bedford by Sir William Harpur. The occasion marked the official 450th anniversary of the founding of the Harpur Trust which was established in 1566, when Queen Elizabeth 1 sat on the throne.

The inspirational guest speaker was Squadron Leader Charlotte Thompson-Edgar (pictured) who was dubbed the ‘Angel of Afghanistan’ after rescuing over 600 wounded troops by helicopter in Helmand Province. Last year, she was awarded nursing’s highest honour, the Royal Red Cross Second Class for exceptional services and devotion to duty Among the many she helped to save was Britain’s first surviving triple amputee of the war. Mark Ormrod lost both legs and an arm when he stepped on a homemade bomb on Christmas Eve 2007. Charlotte attended the former Bedford High School which merged with Dame Alice School in 2012 to become Bedford Girls’ School. She will talk about the values that she gained whilst at school and how these have shaped her in her career.

Pupils from each of the four schools (Bedford School, Bedford Girls School, Bedford Modern School and Pilgrims Pre-preparatory School) performed together with a 450th Anniversary Choir and Orchestra specially formed for the occasion. As well as being involved in readings and prayers, a child from each of the schools also laid a wreath on the tomb of Sir William Harpur,

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who is buried in the Trinity Chapel of the church.

Amongst the guests were Helen Nellis, (the Lord Lieutenant), Charles Whitworth, (The High Sheriff), the Rt Revd Richard Atkinson (the Bishop of Bedford), and Patrons of the Trust Mayor Dave Hodgson and Richard Fuller MP. Tributes were paid to Sir William Harpur who was born in Bedford to humble beginnings; the son of a tailor, he rose through Tudor Court circles to become Lord Mayor of London. Following the dissolution of the monasteries, he bought a small piece of meadowland in what is now Holborn in London. In 1566 he endowed the land to fund a small school for 30 boys in his home town of Bedford (the original school house is opposite the church and will soon be converted into the new Registry Office). Today Harpur’s endowment is worth £78 million and the income is used to provide over £1 million in grants per year to benefit those in Bedford Borough, and a further £2.75 million a year in bursaries to help local children attend the Trust’s four schools.

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20 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

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In Focus with

In Focus with

Fuller

Dave

by Dave Hodgson Mayor of Bedford

Richard Fuller MP for Bedford & Kempston

TEACHERS ARE VITAL TO STANDARD OF SCHOOLS

THIS is a busy time for our local schools. Preparations for exams are well underway. Parents are choosing schools for their children hoping that they will get their first choice.

Head teachers and Governors are working on their plans for the overdue, but welcome, transition to a two tier system – primary and secondary schools – across the Borough. All of this on top of the usual work of our teachers.

I don’t know about you, but I can remember the names of all my teachers at each year of school – and that started nearly 50 years ago!

Teachers can have a lifelong impact on their students – opening eyes to new knowledge, drawing out a talent, or nurturing confidence.

I benefitted enormously from my teachers and I want to do all I can to ensure local schools deliver the highest quality education for all children.

The Government recently announced that “all schools must become academies” by 2020. Schools have been considering this since I became MP six years ago.

In discussions with teachers, governors and parents my view has consistently been that becoming an academy is beneficial but does not magically improve performance of a school: teachers and head teachers will continue to be the most important factors in improving school standards.

Academy status is a sign of confidence by the school’s leadership and should be seen as a positive step. In Bedford and Kempston, the track record of the local authority in improving academic attainment is poor, so we have good reason to consider this transition to a full academy environment.

With a timetable of four more years for schools to make this transition (making 10 years in all), it cannot be said that schools are being rushed. Let’s see what comes of this government proposal.

In the meanwhile let us support our schools as they make the transition to two tier and their drive to improve standards – whichever type of school governance they follow.

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GOOD TRANSPORT LINKS ATTRACT INVESTORS

AFTER over half a century of appearing on national and local plans and strategies, Bedford’s completed western bypass is now a reality.

I made delivering this project a priority when I became Mayor. With the first phase in place, and with traffic levels growing, the need for the final section linking the A428 to the west of Biddenham with the A6 at Clapham to the north of the town was clearly overwhelming.

However, there were numerous reasons why it hadn’t been delivered over all those decades of planning, and many obstacles stood in the way of getting construction underway.

For me, though, a completed bypass was simply essential for all road users, and for Bedford’s economy and jobs growth.

So when it became clear that usual processes were not going to get it built, I launched the successful strategy of pursuing Compulsory Purchase Order Proceedings. This broke down the logjam, got all parties to the table negotiating, and the orders were approved.

We also won funding from external sources, minimising the impact of this £18.6 million scheme on local taxpayers, and the project was completed on time and within budget.

The new road now in place means that anyone travelling west or south of Bedford from the North will not need to drive into the town and through its busy junctions at all. And vice-versa, of course!

Of course, this is not a silver bullet for Bedford’s congestion problems. We have a historic road network, adapted over time as the town has seen rapid, ongoing growth in traffic levels. But the bypass will help.

It sends a clear message out to investors, making Bedford Borough even more attractive to employers and, crucially, will simply help road users to get into and around Bedford.

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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 21

View from

Bishop Richard

by Rt Revd Richard Atkinson Bishop of Bedford

MORE APPLICANTS

ONE of the most rewarding experiences of being a Bishop is when I meet women and men who are exploring their call to ordained ministry as a deacon and priest in the Church of England. As part of the process they have to meet me as their Bishop, and gain my support, in order to attend a selection conference. Not only are these inspiring conversations that explore people’s journeys of faith, but they are also occasions of great hope.

For many years the Church of England sadly lost the plot on ministry. The numbers coming forward to be ordained went down and, equally significantly, the ages of those selected went up. Not only were there fewer people, but they would serve for less years.

Combined with an aging work-force and the consequent increase in retirements the future looked bleak.

In recent years the tide has begun to change. More and more people are coming forward and being selected for training; the age profile of those chosen is going down; and in particular a healthy proportion are under thirty. There is a commitment to see these numbers increase further. It is one of the most hopeful indicators in the church today. This is very much the story of ministry in the Diocese of St Albans. In a few weeks’ time it will be represented by those ordained as deacons and priests in our Cathedral.

It is good news, not least because across our county a number of parishes are currently vacant. For those who live in Henlow and Langford, Harold and Carlton, Renhold, Elstow, and elsewhere it matters that there are priests to take on their parishes.

Above all it is good and hopeful news because all those I meet with to explore their vocation are committed, not just to pastoring church congregations, but to serving the whole community and being at the heart of their neighbourhoods.

As I write this, I am also thinking ahead to our Bishop’s staff residential meeting which is happening at St Columba’s House in Woking; the place to which thirty-seven years ago I went for my selection conference, and where I was recommended for training.

It will be the first time I have returned, but already the memories are there of how my call was explored and affirmed.

I thank God that others are on the same journey.

KEMPSTON RURAL PARISH COUNCIL

The Parish Council is responsible for a number of local services, including: roadside seats, Bus shelters, Litter bins, Dog waste bins, Wood End Play Space, the closed church yard at Church End. In addition, the Parish Council liaises with the Borough Council on matters that are their responsibility such roads and footways. It also considers and responds to local planning proposals and other matters that might affect the lives and well-being of residents.

The Parish Council meets on the third Thursday of the month (except August and December), at 7.30pm in All Saints Church Hall. There is always 15 minutes set aside for public questions.

CONTACT DETAILS:

The Parish Clerk 10 Parklands Bedford, MK41 9LZ Tel: 01234 270016 Email: gillwiggs@btinternet.com http://kempstonrural.bedsparishes.gov.uk

SATURDAY SURGERIES Richard holds regular surgeries at Project 229, Bedford Road, Kempston If you would like to book an appointment, please call (01234) 261487

22 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

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EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

MAY IN THE GARDEN

by Milton Ernest Garden Centre

‘Potty’ advice HE most frequent question we are asked at the Garden Centre (apart from where are the toilets?) is what can I grow in a pot? The answer is almost anything providing you choose the correct size pot and compost and remember to water and feed as required. Apart from the occasional shower the plant only gets what you give it. Pots come in all shapes and sizes the important thing is to choose a container where the volume of compost is adequate for the plants you want to grow. We are happy to advise you. Plastic, fibre glass and glazed pots have the advantage of holding moisture in the compost longer than terracotta as the moisture does not evaporate through the porous sides. It is important to maintain free drainage so raise the pot from the ground with pot feet and put a layer of large gravel, broken brick, tile or polystyrene in the bottom 10cms and then add the compost. Growing plants in pots mean they can go with you when you move house.

Last month I wrote about growing Blueberries, Raspberries and Strawberries in pots so keeping with the food theme Apples, Peaches, Citrus and Nectarines are also successful. Dessert apples are better to grow in containers than Cookers. Any variety grafted onto an M27 rootstock is suitable. Plant in JI No. 2 compost and feed in the spring with fish blood and bone. Peach Garden Gold or Stark Sensation and Nectarine Nectar Crest are also grown in JI No. 2 compost in a container at least 45cms across and deep. Citrus fruits like Meyers Lemon, Nagami Kumquat and Satsuma Mandarin all need Lime Free compost so JI Ericaceous should be used for these plants. Figs are very good when grown in tubs. They grow naturally in poor stony soil so are happy in a container where their roots are restricted. Herbs and vegetables also grow well as potted plants.

It is great to have the herbs you use most like Parsley, Thyme, Oregano and Chives outside the kitchen door and Basil and Coriander on the windowsill. I sow a pot of Basil and Coriander every month to have a continuously fresh supply and dry any excess. Sweet Bay is often grown as a decorative standard in a pot in a formal garden using JI No 2. Potatoes grown in the toughened plastic bags produce amazingly large crops of scrummy new potatoes. Use multi compost like Jacks Magic to grow all sorts of Salad Leaves, Spring Onions,

T

Did you know that relaxation can actually improve your health?

That’s right. Relaxation is good for your mind and body. Over the past decades, large amounts of research on relaxation have been compiled. Researchers found that relaxation can help prevent many diseases and make you feel better in general.

When you relax you gain more energy and achieve better sleep patterns. Regular relaxation is beneficial for the immune system.

It has been found that after one month of regular relaxation a person can increase their natural killer cells and antibody levels. The benefits of relaxation are unlimited.

Many doctors are now just realising that relaxation has so many incredible health benefits and now many of them see the difference in their patients. As part of my programmes, I regularly include relaxation as part of the treatment for my clients.

If you didn’t know the benefits of relaxation, you’re not alone. Many people aren’t aware stress and tension have such a harmful effect on their health. And to top it off, these very same people usually have a hard time letting themselves just relax.

This is one of the many reasons hypnosis is so beneficial.

Hypnosis can greatly improve your ability to relax in a gentle and enjoyable way.

Relaxation enables you to become more productive in your thinking, and ensure greater efficiency and effectiveness. Put the day behind you and relax!

Contact me, to provide a bespoke relaxation programme to improve your health.

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Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Chillies, Peppers and even Climbing French Beans on a tripod.

Pots are often used to grow colourful bedding plants and bulbs for maximum impact. That’s great and these have a place in every garden but they do need to be replanted each spring and autumn for continuous interest which can be quite costly. Now is the time to start planting tubs with bedding plants like Geraniums, Begonias, Petunias and other summer favourites.

If pots are planted with trees, shrubs, roses or perennial plants by choosing varieties carefully you can also achieve colour and interest throughout the year. It is often effective if these pots are grouped and planted with a selection of evergreen, deciduous, and flowering plants so each area maintains maximum interest. Many shrub varieties are grafted onto a stem of a more vigorous plant to produce in effect a small tree. These are called mini standards and are very attractive when grown in containers giving height to areas. Roses are good examples of these together with Euonymus, Holly, Olives, Salix Nishikii, The Weeping Pussy Willow and Prunus Brilliant. In formal gardens Box and Bay are grown in the same way as standards, spheres or cones using JI No 2 compost.

Medium and dwarf shrubs adapt very well to container growing. For sunny places Hebes, Lavender, dwarf Buddleias, Choisya, Cistus, Palms, Cordylines and Pittosporum are good evergreen choices while Hydrangeas, Sarcoccoca, Daphne, Fatsia and Aucuba are all excellent in shade.

Camellias, Azaleas and Rhododendrons are also suitable for shady places but must be planted in Ericaceous JI and fed with ericaceous feed because they grow naturally in lime free soil. Roses, Sweet Peas and Hybrid Clematis trained to grow on tripods are also good in large pots in sunny places patio Climbing Roses being especially successful. I love to grow foliage herbaceous plants in large pots to mix with my summer bedding schemes. I use Hostas, Ferns, Phormiums and Heucheras and to cheer the winter months Hellebores and early flowering dwarf daffodils.

Most importantly don’t forget to water and feed your plants in pots they really do rely on you.

Car Boot Sale Sunday 15th May 10am to 1pm. Details of all events and activities are on our web site at www.miltonernestgardencentre.co.uk

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

Memories as a Fireman at Kempston Fire Station

My mistake

I

T WOULD be true to say that The Fire and Rescue Services are in recent years kept busier with road accidents and associated rescues than fires. It may also be true to say this all changed with the introduction of motorways and faster cars. There has also been a lot more car ownership in recent years. The Fire Service do excellent rescue work in this field of their operations, they have sophisticated equipment and expert training.

Although I was a driver in the Fire Service for twenty years I would never class myself as a good driver in fact to this day I still think the same way, furthermore I do not enjoy driving, some do and many make a living driving, others use the car for transport or pleasure.

On rare occasions fire appliances are also involved in accidents, I was involved in one myself. I am unable to find any record of this accident so I will rely on memory. Sometime around 11.00 on a weekday we were called to a reported fire at Haws Court, Bedford, a little known road situated off Harper Street. The area was in the main used as a service road for adjacent shops. I was the driver and Lfm. Tim Hatton was the O.I.C. The appliance was rather a top heavy vehicle and not much head room in the cab. They were always difficult to drive with a fire helmet on; therefore I placed it on the large dashboard. First we turned right into Southfield’s Road then right again into Elstow Road, under a railway bridge and we had a clear swing left into the A6 Ampthill Road. As I recovered from the left turn my helmet slid across the dashboard and jammed firmly behind the steering wheel, Despite my, and the Lfm. Best efforts the steering wheel was firmly stuck and we collided with a tree.

Nobody was hurt so we quickly inspected the damage. The mudguard was firmly bent onto the front nearside wheel. The Lfm. took one look and decided the action: “Right let’s get the steel shod lever off the top”. This was a large leaver we carried for this sort of situation. We got to work on the mudguard and prized it clear, we were soon mobile again and booked in attendance a few minutes later. Fortunately for us the Bedford crew had dealt with the situation by the time we had arrived.

On the return journey I was worried; the accident had been my fault and no doubt about that. My first job was to make out an accident report; however a member of the crew suggested I visit workshops first; that was a good idea. Roy Peck was the

by Michael Gurr

workshops manager, I explained the situation.“Get it round hear Mick I will see what we can do, in the meantime make out that report.” I knew all the workshops staff well, they were always most helpful.

I made out the report form stating exactly as things happened and took the appliance with report to Mr. Peck in workshops. “If you get a shout that’s O.K. we will not take it off the run, pick it up from hear.” “Thanks so much see you after lunch,” I was not sure how they could fix that. But fix it they did, over the lunch hour, it was as good as new. I thanked all concerned and drove the hundred yards back to the station, as I left I noticed an appliance with a nearside mudguard well damaged! Hummm.

KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 23

Garden notes by Richard Callaghan

BETWEEN the prolonged periods of heavy rain, commonly known as April showers, I got at last some more ground cleared and prepared. This enabled me to plant my potatoes and sow some carrots, parsnips and beetroot under fleece I’m almost up to date.

Winter brassicas are all up in pots under cover waiting to be potted on, the same with the squashes.

In the poly tunnel I have got tomatoes cucumbers and both sweet and hot peppers in twelve inch pots. In some of the pots I have sown some radish seed and they are growing on nicely relishing the warmth and regular feed and water. After the problems we had with onions early last year I am trying something different this year. I have set my onion in trays of compost in the tunnel and I will plant them out probably at the end of the month.

Recently I acquired for a very reasonable price a 200 litre green barrel.

This I have sawn in half length ways. I

also obtained a couple of pallets which I sawn in half and made a stand to mount the half barrels on side by side. I have drilled drainage holes in what is now the bottom of the halves and the next job is to fill them with a good compost and plant them up with strawberries. Now they are waist height so there will be no back breaking bending. I am hoping that this will also mean that they are no longer prone to invasion by bindweed and other hardy weeds which are a problem when strawberries are grown in the ground. I will also be able to cover them to protect them from birds and other pests.

The Casablanca potatoes that I put in pots in the tunnel in early February did not show until early April but are now romping away and looking good so hopefully we will very soon be having some lovely earlyish new potatoes.

On a brighter note, Head of catering’s leg is getting much better, she is hobbling much quicker now!

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24 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

out & about comedy p Putting a spring in your step

Castle Comedy is sure to put a spring in your step this Spring! On May 12th The Gordon Arms, Ent Shed in Bedford plays host to a selection of comics that are all destined for great things! They are quite simply some of the funniest comedians currently working in the UK. Opening the show is Tony Maresse. Tony is a powerhouse of a comedian. He talks of growing up in Hackney with his Italian parents, effortlessly performing numerous characters and accents to hilariously bring his tales to life. He starred in How to be a Man (Channel 4) where in his own words he was “well funny and handsome” and also produces his own comedy short films for KillTv. “Tony Marrese is without a

doubt one of the best live comedians I have seen at the Fringe and I even struggle to think of better live comedians I have seen elsewhere.” – Broadway Baby.

“Very funny” – Harry Hill.

Jenny Collier is going to be a star! Since moving from the Welsh mountains to London in 2010 she has reached the finals of the BBC New Comedian of The Year and the

prestigious NATY’s plus she won The Laughing Horse New Act of The Year in 2014. She is charming, has a wonderful comic turn of phrase and can be very very naughty! ‘’Very likeable...Clearly a rising star’’ – The Evening Standard Closing the show is Cornish funnyman, Matt Price. Matt is quite possibly the best storytelling comedian working the comedy circuit. He is known for having some of the most extraordinary and outrageous stories drawn from the wilder side of life. Yet this selfeffacing Cornish born comic brings real warmth and heart to his tales as well as finding some audacious laughs in the most unexpected places. He has taken the Edinburgh Festival by storm gaining numerous rave reviews in 2014 & 2015.

“A genuine ordinary guy spinning some yarns, extraordinary in their

THE

telling” HHHH Chortle “A terrific comedian and a wonderful storyteller” HHH The Scotsman.

Your Mc for the show is Castle Comedy favourite, Paul Revill! The shows sell out quickly so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment!

Doors open 7.30pm tickets are £8 (£6 NUS) or £16 which includes a pre-show meal and glass of wine at the Gordon Arms. To book 07736 060541 or www.castlecomedy.co.uk

con club

KEMPSTON 01234

851120

ENTERTAINMENT EVERY WEEK Sunday 1st May KIDS PARTY 3pm – BBQ, games, prizes, disco 6.30pm – open mic night with the fantastic

DANNI BENTLEY

Sunday 29th May FAMILY FUN DAY with BBQ bouncy castle games and prizes 3pm till 8pm then open mic from 8pm with the delicious

all welcome Saturday 7th May FANTASTIC ROCK BAND THE MIGHTY

DANNI BENTLEY

HUB WHIPLEY

HARKBACK

Saturday 14th May a night of SOUL AND MOTOWN with the beautiful

D AT E S F O R D I A R Y Saturday 11th June The one and only

SAHARA SOUL Saturday 21st May

GAVIN BRENNAN ROADSHOW DISCO Saturday 28th May the amazingly entertaining

BLUES BROS

Saturday 4th June band night with

DR PHIL SOUL MAN Saturday 25th June the fantastic band FASCINATION Saturday 16th July a night with OLLY MURS

CHECK FOR DETAILS www.facebook.com/conclub.kempston

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

music a

Proms in the Park celebrates 20 years

Bedford Park Concerts are returning this year with their much loved event - The Bedford Park Proms, which will take place on the August 6. It will be made even more special this year as the Proms will celebrate its 20th anniversary and as such the audience will be treated to a spectacular night of music, fireworks

August 6, 2016

Tom Jones with special guests The Shires Bedford Park Sunday August 7

With a career that has spanned more than half a century Toms Jones is an international performer with more than 100 million record sales generated by hits such as ‘It’s Not Unusual’,’ Kiss’, ‘Delilah’ and ‘What’s New Pussycat’, Tom Jones along with his band are set to entertain Bedford with a repertoire

and the famous laser show as well as some other surprises on the night.

The concert will feature the renowned London Gala Orchestra and as in previous years The Bedford Choral Society will be back performing popular classics and film scores. There will also be some very special guest soloists.

This year Classical Brit Award winning Blake will be the headline act at Bedford Park Proms.

The classical super group have sold over one million albums; they mix eclectic classical and pop songs with rich harmony vocals. Their extraordinary success has seen them tour extensively all over the world and as well as winning over the public they have also been firm favourites with Royalty, performing several times for the Queen at Buckingham Palace.

Blake will be joined by Rebecca Newman, affectionately named ‘The People’s Soprano’ by fans, colleagues and the media.

Singer-songwriter Rebecca Newman stormed to number one in the Official UK Classical Albums that spans five decades.

Tom Jones has won many accolades including a BRIT Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music and a Silver Clef Award for Lifetime Achievement. Knighted in 2006, the global star has amassed 36 top 40 UK hits. His irresistible show traverses musical eras and genres, appeals to young and old, male and female, mainstream and cutting edge. Tom has always been about the power of the voice, the power of the song – he is a living legend, one of the few musical artists whose profession began at the dawn of modern popular music who

KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 25

Chart with her debut album release.

She has also shared the stage with some of the biggest classical stars from Russell Watson, Alfie Boe, and Aled Jones.

The night will conclude with a spectacular firework finale, which for many was the biggest highlight of last year’s Proms. The Bedford Park

continues to have a vital recording and performing career to this day.

Warming the crowd up and returning to their home county will be very special guests The Shires. The duo of Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes are one of the hottest country influenced acts right now. Hailing from Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, The Shires are set to warm up the Bedford crowd and open the show for what will be an electric night of fantastic music from not only one of the greatest entertainers in the world but some home grown talent too!

Tickets are on sale now and expected to sell out fast.

They can be purchased at: www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk Tickets - Adults £45.00 inclusive of booking fee. Children age 515, £15.00 inclusive of booking fee.

Under 5s, Free.

Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

Please note this is NOT a picnic concert.

Fully licensed bars and a variety of hot food and drink outlets are available inside the venue.

Proms is one of the only shows in the country where the fireworks are truly choreographed to the music.

In true Proms style, the audience is encouraged to bring picnics, table and chairs or rugs and enjoy the amazing family friendly atmosphere.

Tickets are now on sale at www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk

Tickets are now on sale at www.bedfordparkconcerts.co.uk FB: /Bedfordparkconcerts Follow us on @BedfordConcerts

26 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

at DALEY’S CLUB Bedford Road, Kempston

7.45pm Thursday July 7

Entry by TICKET ONLY £10 available from the bar or call

01234 851143

TONY MARR ES Heavy TV ch E – NATY finalist, an man Channe nel 4, How to be a l 4, Fanboy s anonym FLIP TV...

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now this guy is OLAF FALAFEL st see if you someone you mu . Hilariously have the chance destined for ely sur and ny fun re and fame. greater exposu

ter and oadcas edian, br k the Week. up com oc BT E standing on M otball's On on IAN STON ous for appear d The Fo m writer fa Fighting Talk an s Radio 5' Sport.

ED HEDGES Bris tol comic who was joint winner of the So You Thi nk You're Funny new tale nt competition at the Edinburgh Frin ge, at the age of just 19.

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KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 27

NEW LOOK – NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED

“Sweet as a nut”

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Mon-Thurs 11.30am–12midnight, Fri-Sat 11.30am-1am, Sunday 12noon-12midnight

28 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

twinwood festival Vintage music and dance festival

As vintage style continues to grow in popularity, every year, over the August bank holiday, Twinwood festival attracts increasing numbers of wellturned out vintage lovers to its historic site in Clapham, Bedfordshire.

Now in its 15th year, the festival

will be offering visitors over sixty fabulous vintage music acts, with bands like The Puppini Sisters, Alex Mendham His Orchestra, Down for the Count, Mike Sanchez, The Bootleg Beatles and the Electric Swing Circus.

Spread over eleven themed on-site venues the programme of music spans from the 30s right through to the swinging 60s and also includes Gypsy Jazz and Electro Swing!

However, Twinwood Festival is not just music! 2016 will see the biggest selection of original vintage, retro and vintage reproduction traders, with well over 150 different stalls across the site.

There will also be several vintage beauty salons, a men’s barbers, museums, classic cars, dance lessons, bars, clubs, food vendors and, of course, plenty of places to dance!

events t International Kite Festival

Russell Park, Bedford Sat & Sun June 11 & 12

Bedford Borough Council is getting ready to host the 14th Annual International Kite Festival and you’re invited!

Each year, this free event attracts thousands of visitors to Bedford and is a great day out for the family. The event showcases kites from the four corners of the globe.The Kite Festival is open on Saturday, from 10am – 6pm, and on the Sunday, from 10am – 5pm.

Christian Aid Week Every year the charity, Christian Aid, holds a national fund-raising week. This year the focus is on Bangladesh, where two million people live on low-lying islands in the Brahmaputra River, at constant risk of flooding.

Traditionally, most of the money has been raised by a house-to-house collection undertaken by volunteers from the churches in Kempston.

Some streets will be covered this year, but the increasing size of Kempston and fewer volunteers means that you may well not receive an envelope through your door.

However, do look out for other events planned by different churches, and do visit the Christian Aid display in Kempston Library 21st May. There you will find more information, envelopes for your contributions, and a poster explaining how you can give by text message.

May 15-22

BEDFORD ORGAN & KEYBOARD CLUB THE ADDISON CENTRE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Present Popular Organist

CLAIRE GREIG IN CONCERT WEDNESDAY 25 MAY 2016 7.30 – 10.00pm –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Members £5 PAY AT Non-Members £6 DOOR –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Contact: 01234 344423 www/Organfax/clubs/Bedford

30 — KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952

EDITORIAL: pat@rosettapublishing.com

MAY IN KEMPSTON LIBRARY

REGULAR WEEKLY EVENTS: Mondays 2:15pm Pre-School Story Time Tuesdays 9:30am English Language Lessons Tuesdays 11am Rhyme Time Tuesdays 3:30pm Homework Centre Wednesdays 2:30pm Family Colouring Club Thursdays 11am: Wiggles and Jiggles Baby Group Thursdays 2pm Knit and Natter Thursdays 3:30pm Homework Centre Saturdays 10:30am – 3:30pm: Saturday Kids Club SPECIAL EVENTS IN MAY AND EARLY JUNE: Monday 9th May, 10am – 4pm: One Support Benefit Drop In Session

Monday 9th May, 4:30pm: Chatterbooks Reading Group Wednesday 11th May, 7:30pm: The Book Librarian Theatre Production of Hamlet.

Tickets £7 available online through Librarian Theatre.

Monday 23rd May, 10am – 4pm: One Support Benefit Drop In Session Wednesday 25th May, 2:30pm: Adult Craft and plant swap session.

Saturday 28th May, 10am – 3:30pm: Elmer’s 27th Birthday Saturday Kids Club Special Tuesday 31st May, 11:30-4:30pm: Paper Chain Pets Making Wednesday 1st June, 2:30-5:30pm: Tropical Bird Collaging Colouring Club Thursday 2nd June, 10:30am – 4pm: Owl Cup Craft Making Friday 3rd June, 2:30 – 5:30pm: Robot Weaving Saturday 4th June, 10:30am – 3:30pm:

Addison Centre Kempston Fund Raising

––––––––––––––––––––––––

MONDAY 23rd MAY 2016 2.00pm to 4.30pm £2.50 (Incl Cuppa) Tel: 01234 851877 or 01234 340997

TEA DANCE

–––––––––––––––––––––––– ExERCISE CLASS FOR THE OVER 60s

KEEP ON MOVIN’ All Saints Church Hall, Kempston Rural 11.15am Friday May 6th Tel: 07758 205455 email: walkbedford@gmail.com www.walkbedford.co.uk

–––––––––––––––––––––––– Roxton Garden Centre(off Black Cat roundabout/A1) Bedford Rd. MK44 3DY 2nd May also 29/30th May FREE ENTRY & FREE MAZE A wide selection of unique handmade crafts & gifts, not found on the High St. Stallholders Tel: 01536 675000 email: coulterlyons@yahoo.co.uk

CRAFT & GIFT FAIR

––––––––––––––––––––––––

KEMPSTON AND DISTRICT MODEL RAILWAY SOCIETY

Every Monday 7.30 to 10.00 At the Church of the Transfiguration rear church hall New members welcome For further details contact Brian Woodcock on 07795251988 or brianwoodcock@btinternet.com ALL SAINTS PARISH CHURCH KEMPSTON

––––––––––––––––––––––––

FULL AFTERNOON TEA & A GUIDED TOUR

of this historic church to visiting groups of 10 or above at a cost per head of £7.95. Contacts are Janet Fardell on 01234 855158 email:martinandjanet1@btinternet.com or Frances Leonard on 01234 852480 email: francesmleonard@gmail.com

––––––––––––––––––––––––

Prince and Princess Crown Making Saturday Kids Club.

Monday 6th June: 10am – 4pm: One Support Benefit Drop In Session Monday 6th June, 4:30pm: CHATTERBOOKS READING GROUP Sessions for basic computer help.

Need help with your tablet? Book a one to one session now!

Housebound Library Link and Mobile Library services also available.

Homework Centre for Middle and Upper School students, every Tuesday and Thursday term time, 3:30-5:30pm.

Download the Bedfordshire Library App from the Apple and Play Store now!

For further details on all the Library events and services, visit the virtual library via www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

––––––––––––––––––––––––

ALL SAINTS NATTER CLUB

Guest speaker is Bedford Mayor Dave Hodgson talking about his duties as Mayor Thursday May 19th , 2pm – 5pm in Church Hall Entry £1 including teas, coffees & cakes. Raffle tickets £1 All Welcome Further information – Vikki Clarke 01234 843660.

––––––––––––––––––––––––

KEMPSTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB DANCING, WHIST, BINGO Meets Wednesday 10am-12noon Friday 10am-4.00pm

at the CENTENARY HALL, behind Kempston Town Hall, Bedford Road For further information telephone:

01234 857011

Addison Centre, Kempston

––––––––––––––––––––––––

SOCIAL DANCE EVENING

Ballroom/Sequence Sat 14th May 2016 From 7.00 - 11.00pm Licensed Bar, Raffle, Tea/Coffee Admission At Door £5.00 Ring 01234 851877 COCK INN WOOTTON

–––––––––––––––––––––––– Saturday 28th May

MAY MADNESS

In aid of MacMillan Cancer Support Starting at 1pm

OLYMPIC THEME

There will be organised games for children, bouncy castle, bucking bronco bull, BBQ, auction, raffle and various other activities

in the evening

DISCO

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO MACMILLAN

––––––––––––––––––––––––

TEL: 07724 905406 or 07894 935952 ADS: advertising@rosettapublishing.com

An exciting local event bringing Bedford businesses together for a spot of wet, muddy, fun team building to raise funds for FACES Bedford charity. A wonderful charity supporting families and children in Bedford. www.facesbedford.org/ In partnership with Canoe Trails who are hosting this event and supplying everything you need we will provide a fantastic day of fun and team challenges, followed by a celebration event at The Embankment hotel. For further details: www.beds-businesswomen. org/event/faceoff-charity-battle/

CHURCH OF THE TRANSFIGURATION (Bedford Road, opposite the Addison Howard Park)

––––––––––––––––––––––––

SUMMER FAIR

Saturday 4th June at 12noon Entrance 50p (children free) Come along and enjoy a performance of ‘batton twirling’ by the:

SHEFFORD MAJORETTES

There will also be many other attractions such as: cake stall, tombola, jewellery, baby clothes, bric-a-brac, toys, games, books & plants, Grand Draw, MU stall & bouncy castle and a ‘bargain basement’ There will also be tea coffee and cakes.

Please come along to support the church and also to enjoy a friendly family atmosphere.

––––––––––––––––––––––––

MUSIC NIGHT

THE FENNY STOMPERS JAZZ BAND Bedford Lions Club are proud to announce a fundraising event on Saturday 7 May 2016 Bromham Village Hall, Village Road, Bromham MK43 8JP The musicians will be ‘The Fenny Stompers Jazz Band’ from Fenny Stratford, near Bletchley, Milton Keynes.

The prime purpose of the event is to raise funds for Beds & Northants MS Therapy Centre.

Tickets are available from any member of Bedford Lions Club, or the lions ticket website: liontickets@outlook.com Doors open at 7.30pm. Tickets are £13 per person, the price includes a fish and chip supper.Friday 6th May 2016

––––––––––––––––––––––––

Over 100 shows all in one tin!

From Thursday 21st to Saturday 30th July Bedford will host the 10th Anniversary International Festival Fringe bringing to Bedford a carefully selected programme of comedy, theatre, live music, film, dance and physical theatre to your doorstep. All these events will be held exclusively at The Quarry Theatre.

Bedfringe started back in 2007 making 2016 the tenth Bedfringe.

That’s where the tin banding comes from (in case you were wondering).

Bedfringe is moving into The Quarry Theatre for 10 days bringing

KEMPSTON CALLING MAY 2016 — 31

to the main auditorium and studio theatre a dynamic range of acts ranging from stand-up comedy, theatre, music, dance to hi-tech shows like WiFi Wars where you play games against other audience members on a huge projected screen using your smart phone!

Look out for some highlights including the 4th instalment of Joe Bone’s stunning Bane series, Tom Binns… the only comedian to get a five-star review in The Scotsman at last year’s Edinburgh fringe brings his brand new show and the fabulous Paul Foot will be bringing his new show Tis a Pity She’s a Piglet!

There’s plenty do to for the kids

as well… and thanks to Bedfordshire Inflatables, lots of garden games will be out for the little uns’ to play with including swing cars, space hoppers, connect 4, snakes and ladders and limbo! So why not just come down and enjoy the wonderful bar and garden areas of The Quarry Theatre!

Kids show highlights for us are Morgan & West’s Utterly Spiffing Spectacular Magic Show, Three Half Pints (stars of CBeebies Spot Bots) bring their new show Bad Guys and a special touring show (in a van!) The Last Post.

So what are you waiting for? Visit www.bedfringe.com to start your Bedfringe experience!